Q: Can students experiencing homelessness be denied enrollment for lacking paperwork that is normally required for enrollment?A: No. Under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act, children and youth experiencing homelessness have the right to immediate enrollment, even if lacking paperwork normally required for enrollment, such as:

Birth certificate

Immunization or other health/medical records

Previous academic records

Proof of residence

Proof of guardianship

Enrollment tip: In instances where paperwork is lacking, the following strategies may be used:

Birth certificate: The school district can assist in getting a copy of the student's birth certificate or accept a signed Affidavit for Missing Enrollment Documentation

Immunization and/or other health/medical records: The school district can assist in getting copies of the student's records and/or assist in getting any needed immunizations.

Previous academic records: The school district can contact the student's previous school/district and arrange for the immediate transfer of the student's records.

Proof of guardianship: The school district can accept a signed Caregiver Authorization Form.

Proof of residency: The school district can accept a signed affidavit stating that the family is staying in temporary accommodations.

According to federal law, while enrollment documentation is being gathered, the homeless student's enrollment and full participation in school must continue uninterrupted.